Saturday, April 20, 2024  

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Today's Hymn
“Many and Great, O God, Are Thy Works”

Many and great, O God, are thy works,
Maker of earth and sky.
Thy hands have set the heavens with stars;
thy fingers spread the mountains and plains.
Lo, at thy word the waters were formed.
Deep seas obey thy voice.

by Joseph R. Renville
Hymn 21, Glory to God
verse 1

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Reflection

“Many and Great” is a hymn familiar and universal, with an evocative Dakota chant melody and text based on Jeremiah 10:12–13. Just reading these words, I feel both the expansiveness of and my connection with that infinite being, source of all life, maker of earth and sky. Nature reminds us of what is transcendent and essential to our existence. It is carried in these words, that deep respect and reverence for God’s creation. I am filled with respect for those who sang these words and carried their wisdom and meaning before me.

I reflect upon the wondrous work of creation, the dynamic of life, death, and recreation. I reflect upon moments taking in the heavens of a dark sky, looking out at centuries-old mountains, at a vast and rhythmic ocean vista, or even looking out at Lake Michigan from the Chicago shoreline. There’s no need to imagine greatly to find awe in God’s creation.

So much of Earth Day (which is this Monday, April 22) is plentiful ways to take action, focused on stewardship. This verse reminds me to take a moment to truly recognize what’s been bestowed. In this short illustrative verse is the point and purpose of the stewardship to which we’re called. I want to be God’s partner in the care of creation, together with a greater caring community.

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Prayer
Creator God, may I sing the glory of the skies, mountains, plains, and waters. May I be wise and constant in love and stewardship of your amazing works in nature, part of those who’ve come before me, providing for those who will follow. I bow my soul and am filled with wonder, respect, and so much gratitude. Amen.

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Written by Laura Sterkel, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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